The coming new year is always a good time to think about ways to make the year better. The list of “lessons learned” is from an article in the Sun Sentinel, written by real estate contributor Gary Singer. Just utilizing one of these suggestions may make a difference in making your 2025 a better year.
Do not sign anything you have not read and understood.
Do not be afraid to ask questions, and do not feel you must accept the answers at face value.
If you have any doubt as to what you are told, do more research.
There are very few things that cannot wait one day while you think about it.
Whenever a situation seems like it might become a problem, take lots of notes and cell phone photos.
If you come to a meaningful agreement on a phone call, send an email to the person you spoke with to confirm the details.
While confrontation can be uncomfortable, the best and least expensive way of resolving a dispute is speaking calmly to the responsible party about the issue.
If the branches from your neighbor’s tree hang over your property line, you can safely trim them back, at your expense, as long as you do not damage the tree’s health.
Consult with an estate planning professional to get your will done.
If you are buying a property with someone you are not married to, it is good to get a joint property ownership agreement prepared.
If you rent a home, you should read the landlord-tenant statute; it is relatively easy to read and acts as an instruction manual.
When buying a property in a condominium or homeowners association, you need to understand the rules and live by them. If this idea does not work for you, find a different property.
Don’t underestimate the importance of insurance and the importance of shopping around for the best coverage.
Some have said that good fences make good neighbors. Good people make good neighbors.
As hard as it can be to sift through the junk, it is essential to check your mail for important notices regularly.
